The first session is for 1 1/2 hours, and costs $200. Further sessions are of 50 minutes duration and cost $140. Rebates are available through Medibank Private and Australian Unity, depending on your type and level of cover. I am also able to offer counselling through Victims of Crime (if you are seeking counselling support to cope after a crime has been committed against you) and Carers Victoria (for family carers of someone with an illness or disability, or who is aged). To apply for these free services, you need to contact those organizations directly - see http://www.victimsofcrime.vic.gov.au or http://www.carersvictoria.org.au/how-we-help/counselling for more information.

2. What frameworks inform your approach?

I use an eclectic approach, based on systemic theory, attachment theory and emotion-focused therapy. When working with the effects of relational trauma, I also draw on music therapy methods, dialectical behavioural therapy, mindfulness and sensori-motor psychotherapeutic frameworks. These are all evidence-based, client-centred approaches that give you perspectives and tools to actively and effectively work on your relationships, as well as maximizing your existing resources and strengths.

3. For men and boys: Will a female counsellor understand my point of view?

I really enjoy hearing the different views that each partner or family member has about what is happening! Each person's unique perspective gives important information about the situation, that is needed in order to craft together win-win solutions that are tailored specifically to your particular strengths as a couple/family, and are the right fit for you.

4. How many sessions will we need?

I offer two types of counselling. The first focuses solely on helping couples, children and families communicate and resolve conflict better. This is suitable for people where issues have occurred recently, you have a history of being able to relate well as a couple or family, and no-one is dealing with other complex issues such as unresolved grief or trauma. Often this work can be completed within 4 - 8 sessions.

The second type of counselling focuses more on patterns of relating which may have developed in response to grief, trauma, abuse or neglect. These ways of relating may have helped you to survive difficulties, but may now be creating problems in achieving intimacy and healthy connection. This work requires a longer time commitment (an average would be 6 - 12 months, but can take longer where issues are long-standing and may have affected your relational functioning in a more profound way). We will work together to evaluate goals and measure progress together, to decide how long a time may be required.

5. How often should we come for counselling?

In order to get the most benefit from counselling, I recommend you come either weekly or fornightly.

6. Can I come to counselling on my own?

You are most welcome to come to counselling on your own. Sometimes it can help to start individually,especially where trauma or grief has affected your relationships with your partner, kids, parents and/or extended family members. Where issues are more complex and/or long-standing, counselling may involve a mixture of individual and joint sessions. Families may find it useful to come in different combinations at times, depending on what you want to talk through.

7. What if I can't get my partner or family member to come to counselling?

Start by yourself, and we will work together on how best to encourage your loved ones to feel that counselling may be a non judgmental and healing space, where their perspectives will be welcomed. If they continue to be unwilling to come to counselling, you can still learn strategies and new perspectives that will empower you to make the changes you need for yourself in relationship.

8. Do you see couples and families who have not experienced trauma or grief, who are just dealing with 'ordinary' issues?

Yes, of course! My training is as a couple and family counsellor, and I am skilled at helping people with the range of 'normal' relationship issues that can cause distress.

9. When are sessions available?

Counselling appointments are available on Tuesday between 9 a.m and 8 p.m., and on Wednesday evenings between 6 and 8 p.m.